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Perspectives of opioid users on overdose recognition, naloxone administration, and attitudes

Rajnish Raj1, Shaheena Parveen1, Sajid Mohammad Wani1

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences Kashmir, Government Medical College, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Industrial Psychiatry Journal
|February 23, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Opioid overdose deaths are rising. Naloxone (Narcan) is underused due to low awareness and stigma, limiting its effectiveness in preventing fatal overdoses.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Addiction Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Rising opioid overdose deaths underscore the need for effective interventions.
  • Naloxone (Narcan) is a critical tool for reversing opioid overdoses but faces challenges in utilization.
  • Knowledge gaps and social stigma impede widespread naloxone access and use among opioid users.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) concerning overdose events.
  • To assess the experiences and perceptions of OUD patients regarding naloxone.
  • To identify barriers to naloxone use in the target population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 501 participants with opioid use disorder was conducted.
  • Data collection utilized semistructured interviews and the Brief Opioid Overdose Knowledge questionnaire.
  • Assessments focused on knowledge of overdose, recognition, response, and attitudes toward naloxone.

Main Results:

  • Participants exhibited low knowledge regarding naloxone, with significant barriers including stigma and limited access.
  • Overdose history, naloxone awareness/use, education, and socioeconomic status influenced knowledge and response scores.
  • Despite high rates of overdose history, naloxone utilization and awareness were suboptimal.

Conclusions:

  • Naloxone's effectiveness in reversing opioid overdoses is hindered by poor awareness, stigma, and access issues.
  • Targeted community interventions are essential to improve harm reduction education and destigmatize naloxone.
  • Addressing these barriers is crucial for reducing opioid overdose fatalities.
Keywords:
BuprenorphineKashmir naloxonenaloxonenaloxone stigmaoverdose knowledge

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